Just how widespread is the use of performance-enhancing drugs among Kenya’s distance runners?

Last summer, Mathew Kisorio (left), the third-fastest half-marathoner in history, tested positive for steroids and later admitted to blood-boosting. He alleged that such illicit drug use was not uncommon in Kenya, and that it was promoted by doctors working with Kenya’s runners and with foreign athletes visiting the country.

A German journalist, Hajo Seppelt, made similar claims. And while Athletics Kenya, the national governing body for running, initially vigorously disputed such charges, it later agreed to work with the World Anti-Doping Agency to investigate the situation.

Arguments over the extent of drug use in Kenya surfaced again in recent days after statements made by Moses Kiptanui, a three-time world champion steeplechaser in the 1990s and the coach of Ezekiel Kemboi, the 2004 and 2012 Olympic steeplechase winner. Kiptanui, who is also a district chairman of Athletics Kenya, said in a BBC interview, “The information shows that there are a good number of athletes out there who are using drugs.

“[The athletes] want to get money by all means,” Kiptanui continued. “Either by a genuine way or another way. We have put rules in place. If we don't use these rules then athletes will still use these drugs."

Kiptanui also said, in the matter of a drug test result, "If you can bribe somebody today or tomorrow, then it is gone. All over the world there is corruption in sport. It is not only a matter in Kenya."

Understandably, Kiptanui’s comments generated controversy in his country. Athletics Kenya Secretary General David Okeyo demanded that he provide evidence to support his charges, and that he name specific names of offenders.

Paul Tergat, the former world record holder in the marathon and two-time Olympic silver medalist, responded to Kiptanui by asserting, “Those are misplaced comments that are bringing disharmony among our runners and the country at large.”

Tergat disputed the idea that use of performance-enhancing substances by Kenyan runners was a widespread problem. “Personally I never come across anyone using them but that is not to say that it does not happen. We should treat every case as it comes,” stated Tergat.

He suggested that “some of these young kids go and buy banned substances over the counter,” and that the “majority of our sportsmen may not know that some of these drugs they use are banned.” But, Tergat said, “Compared to other countries, our record is good and we should stop generalizing this matter.”